After three seasons with Huddersfield, veteran prop Chris Hill will depart from the Giants at the end of the season, entering the open market ahead of 2025.
The forward, who will turn 37 in November, had a year left on his contract at John Smith’s Stadium.
However, the club announced earlier this week that he would leave by the end of 2024.
With 37 caps for England and four for the UK on his CV, Hill has played for over 550 teams, wearing the shirts of Leigh, then Centurions, and Warrington Wolves before signing with Huddersfield.
In questo caso, prendiamo in considerazione cinque squadre della Super League che potrebbe essere affiliato in 2025.
If not for their geographical location, Hull would certainly be in the mix. The Black and Whites have already proven that age is just a number in their recruitment strategy, and Hill would be a smart addition, bringing valuable experience to mentor younger front-rowers like Yusuf Aydin.
However, the challenge lies in the fact that Hill still resides in the Lowton area, making a four-hour round trip each day a significant burden. This issue is further complicated by the likelihood that he’ll only secure a one-year deal, regardless of where he signs.
Headingley is roughly an hour closer to home, and Leeds could find themselves needing to fill a gap in their squad by 2025. Signing a British forward like Hill would likely be more cost-effective than bringing in someone from abroad.
The Rhinos have struggled with their forward performance throughout 2024, and the 36-year-old could provide a boost. However, it’s uncertain whether Brad Arthur would have interest in bringing him on board.
As previously mentioned, Hill began his career at Leigh, rising through the youth ranks with the then-Centurions and making 160 appearances before moving to Warrington. He also made his first Super League appearance for Leigh as a 17-year-old in September 2005.
Fast forward 19 years, and the Leopards have become a formidable force in the top flight. With starting front-rower Tom Amone set to leave at the end of this year, and occasional concerns about squad depth, Hill could be the ideal solution to address these issues.
Salford Red Devils have a solid roster of front-rowers for 2025, and being local to Hill could be advantageous. Head coach Paul Rowley is familiar with Hill from their time together at Leigh, where they played 29 games alongside each other towards the end of Rowley’s career.
Salford might consider moving King Vuniyayawa out of the club in the off-season, especially since he has already been loaned out this year and occupies a quota spot. If they can create space, it’s likely they would be interested in bringing Hill on board.
Saints fans, consider this: you’ve faced a shortage of props at times this year due to injuries and suspensions, and this trend might continue into 2025.
Offering Hill a one-year deal could be a strategic move while young players like Noah Stephens and George Delaney continue to develop. As with Hull, having a veteran like Hill could provide invaluable mentorship, similar to the role Alex Walmsley plays behind the scenes.